5/8/14 - Officials in Hartland are trying to get a better understanding of the post-recession housing market and where it will be going in the future. Last night, the township board approved spending up to $27,500 on an analysis of the residential housing market, including what is currently in demand, what is available, the potential for new construction, and what kinds of housing will be in demand in coming years. Township Manager James Wickman says many important decisions at the township level rely on accurate knowledge of the status and future of housing in the municipality. The township will use the results of the analysis in creating comprehensive plans, land use planning, and policies for the municipality that better reflect the needs of residents. Wickman says the township needs to know how the housing market has changed and will continue to change following the recession, and a third party analysis is needed to confirm or deny the anecdotal evidence that has been collected so far. Trustee Joe Petrucci told the board he was not happy with having to spend this kind of money on a residential analysis, but he understood why it was necessary for the function of the township board. The analysis will be conducted this summer. (TD)
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